Warning: Please be aware that this article is about an adult topic. If you continue, you will read material intended for mature readers only.

The loss of a job can have a very powerful impact on so many parts of our life, including our emotions. For some, feelings of sadness, loss and grief  may lead to depression.  Anxiety for the challenges that lie ahead and feelings of hopelessness due to the uncertainty about a new job may also be common feelings.  Make sure that you review the Job Recovery Checklist!

The loss of a job can ultimately shatter our sense of “self” and confidence in our knowledge, skills and abilities...

EDITOR'S NOTE: If you have lost your job, and are in a family or relationship and are coping, then you probably already know about the Birds & the Bees and we hope this information is helpful and informative.

Job loss, like any loss, means letting go of something valuable. Job loss is considered a major life event not unlike the death of a loved one, divorce, or serious injury. It's painful, shocking, and depressing. Don't be surprised if you go through all five stages of grief as defined by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, author of On Death and Dying:

1. Denial (this isn't happening to me!)
2. Anger (why is this happening to me?)
3. Bargaining (I promise I'll be a better person if...)
4. Depression (I don't care anymore)
5. Acceptance (I'm ready for whatever comes)

Coping with job-loss is not an easy thing to do alone.  You need to rely on your partner for support as you move through this process.  You also need to keep the relationship with your partner strong...

How does this impact my sex life? Losing a job is not directly responsible for impacting your sex life, but your emotions are. Our desire for sexual intimacy easily comes when we are feeling confident and relaxed, without much thought or worries. There are many stressful thoughts that can get in the way of feeling confident and sexual; the worry that frequently comes with job loss is one of them.

Why don’t I look forward to sex like I used to? Each person might react differently to job loss. When this event occupies your mind, you might be so distracted that even things you used to enjoy seem unappealing. You might also be having doubts and negative thoughts about yourself. This often results in lowered sexual interest. Your partner might also be feeling uncertain or stressed about the future, being vulnerable to changes in sexual drive as well.

What if I look for sex to “escape”? Sex does not increase confidence or fill an emotional void. If you find yourself increasingly interested in sex, to the point of ignoring or jeopardizing the emotional intimacy with your sex partner, it would be wise to seek help in exploring your emotions. It is risky to use sex as a way to cope, because it can become a compulsive behavior and hurt a relationship.

WHAT DO I DO?

We tend to focus on the financial stability aspects of job-loss because it represents security and well-being, so it is important not to lose sight of what we are trying to protect: Our Security and Happiness. As you begin to move through the process of re-establishing your career, it is important to not lose sight that the job that you had only provided a portion of your security and happiness - the rest came from the relationships in your life. No matter what the financial and job situation, when you are with your partner, you can always have a good feeling that comes from intimacy and caring for each other. Try reducing your negative thoughts through focusing on the present moment with your loved one, or even try meditation. There are truly joyful moments in your life; the trick is to be open to see them and to feel good, despite the challenges that also exist.

Seek sexual experiences with your partner. Sometimes when you have not had sex in a while, you might forget how much you enjoy it! Your sex drive gets a boost and your emotional connection with your loved one becomes stronger as you renew your sexual activity and pay attention to each other’s emotions.

"ILostMyJob.com provides information, ideas, and inspiration for people in job transition. If you have lost your job and need additional help, may we suggest you find local resources on our search by state page or browse additional articles in our Get Help library. For tips about how to perform a job search, we encourage you to visit www.careercentertoolbox.com. In particular, these articles talk about having a personal strategy and mistakes to avoid. Please feel free to start your week with our Outlook News podcast at ILostMyJob.com/monday, and to receive information and updates by email, subscribe to our free Job Transition News newsletter. Thank you for your visit, and all the best!"

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The information contained on this web site is presented for the purpose of educating people about the emotional effects of job-loss. Nothing contained on this web site should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.

Should you have any health care related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified health care provider promptly. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider before embarking on treatment.

You should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.